The European Youth Card Association (EYCA) has finally launched its first ever Youth Panel, which I am thrilled to be a part of – not only as a representative of Malta but also of the 6 million youth card holders across Europe.
This serves as an opportunity for me to be the voice of young people locally and internationally when it comes to giving feedback to the EYCA Board about the many benefits, amongst which discounts and opportunities are included.
I had opted to apply because I completely conform with EYCA’s main goal – to see a Europe where all young people are mobile and active. Between the 2nd and 4th of March, I had my first training session in Prague with the 9 other Europeans who have been selected as Youth Panelists and Ambassadors. These other panelists, and now friends, come from France, Greece, Hungary, Luxembourg, Scotland, Serbia, Slovenia and Spain. Despite our different cultures, skills and backgrounds, our team had chemistry from the very first session. It was delightful to meet other young people who are working and want to work for a better Europe, where young people get involved, where youth policy allows for growth and development, where opinions are heard and acted upon. We exchanged views and found much common ground – each one of us is passionate about Democracy and playing a role in encouraging others to stand up and be counted.
Over the few days, it was great to learn more about EYCA’s role in Europe, what we as a Youth Panel represent, and what the coming two years look like. We brainstormed, laughed, worked and valued our time together. Indeed, we are not only very excited to meet again next June in Ljubljana, but we are also very much looking forward to working together in the coming weeks to prepare and present the project we have in mind to the EYCA board. One thing’s for sure, you’ll be hearing from us in the near future.
